Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. Keygeek Keygeek Raw
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Keygeek Raw offer two distinct options for users with different preferences. The Aflion Foggy Shadow is a tactile switch that boasts a very light tactile bump and a 63.5g bottom-out force, striking a balance between weight and performance. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw stands out for its unique material blend, combining Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon to create a delightfully creamy and lightweight linear switch. While the Foggy Shadow is best suited for those looking for a balanced tactile typing experience, the Keygeek Raw caters to enthusiasts who enjoy a slightly textured feel and prefer hand-lubing their switches. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw, the Foggy Shadow features a polycarbonate top housing while the Keygeek Raw has a Nylon & UPE blend top housing. While both materials offer unique properties, the use of polycarbonate in the Foggy Shadow creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Nylon & UPE blend in the Keygeek Raw produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound.
In addition to the top housing, the Foggy Shadow and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw also differ in their bottom housing materials. The Foggy Shadow utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties. Meanwhile, the Keygeek Raw features a UMPE & Si blend bottom housing, offering exclusive properties unique to Keygeek Raw switches. Each material brings its own qualities to the switch, impacting both the sound and feel of typing on the keyboard.
Despite their differences, both the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw prioritize sound quality and typing experience through their choice of housing materials. While the Foggy Shadow may offer a sharper and more resonant sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing, the Keygeek Raw provides a deeper and fuller sound with its Nylon & UPE blend top housing. Regardless of the material used, the housing of these switches plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of typing, catering to the preferences of users seeking specific characteristics in their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, it is clear that the Foggy Shadow has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams compared to the Keygeek Raw's 57.5 grams. Both switches have an unknown actuation force. In terms of weight, the Keygeek Raw is slightly lighter, which may appeal to users looking for a more effortless typing experience for extended periods, such as for work or gaming. However, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may prefer the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Foggy Shadow for a more satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, slightly longer than the Keygeek Raw linear switch with a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular for their quick response times. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor shorter travel distances for faster inputs. However, those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the switch with the longer travel distance. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter, more responsive feel or a slightly longer, more deliberate keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Foggy Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Foggy Shadow for $3.91.
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, both the Aflion Foggy Shadow and Keygeek Raw switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a variety of intents and purposes. The low-pitched sound of the Foggy Shadow adds a mellow tone to typing, while the Keygeek Raw offers a more balanced sound experience. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Foggy Shadow switch does not have any specific descriptors provided, while the Keygeek Raw switch is described as having a textured feel out of the box. The slight friction in the Keygeek Raw switch may cater to users who prefer a bit of feedback when typing. Additionally, the mild and subtle characteristics of the Keygeek Raw provide a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users.
Overall, both the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Foggy Shadow provides a light tactile bump and a low-pitched sound profile, the Keygeek Raw stands out with its unique material blend and textured feel. Depending on individual preferences for typing experience and sound profile, either switch can offer a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, trying out both switches would give a better idea of which one suits your preferences best.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, you should consider your preference for a light tactile bump and low-pitched sound with the Foggy Shadow, as well as a slightly textured feel and neutral sound profile with the Keygeek Raw. If you value a balanced performance with a medium-heavy bottom out force, then the Foggy Shadow may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a creamy yet lightweight switch that allows for easy customization through hand-lubing, the Keygeek Raw could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing preferences and the type of typing experience you are seeking.
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